A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Flagstaff for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Galveston or Flagstaff?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Galveston and Flagstaff can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Galveston travel costs.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a active, adventurous , and picturesque city. Flagstaff is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Flagstaff travel costs.

Galveston and Flagstaff: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Galveston or Flagstaff?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Galveston. Although Galveston and Flagstaff are both popular with visitors, Galveston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Galveston is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Flagstaff is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier. Flagstaff is popular for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66.

How is Galveston different from Flagstaff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Flagstaff and Galveston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Galveston or Flagstaff?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Galveston is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Galveston. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

Flagstaff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.


Is the Food Better in Galveston or Flagstaff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Flagstaff has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Galveston is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Galveston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

If you're looking for night time activities Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Galveston is a town with good options for the beach. However, Flagstaff is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Galveston. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Flagstaff is not a beach destination.


Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Galveston is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Flagstaff does not have a historic old town.

Galveston offers a nice historic old town area. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Flagstaff does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Flagstaff specifically for its hiking. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Flagstaff?

Galveston
Flagstaff

If you're looking to go shopping, Galveston and Flagstaff both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galveston. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Many visitors go to Flagstaff to go shopping. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.


Is Galveston or Flagstaff More Beautiful?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Flagstaff is a beautiful place to visit, too. While the city itself isn't exactly beautiful, the surrounding landscapes are surreal and truly unique.

Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for Families?

Galveston
Flagstaff

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Galveston or Flagstaff.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Galveston is very family-friendly. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Flagstaff is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for Couples?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Galveston is well known for couples. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Galveston frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.


Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Flagstaff. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Galveston or Flagstaff Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Galveston and Flagstaff both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Public transit is generally limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

Is Galveston or Flagstaff a more walkable city?

Galveston
Flagstaff

Galveston and Flagstaff are good when it comes to walkability.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable place. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

Flagstaff is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.


For even more information, also check out Is Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is Flagstaff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Flagstaff or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Flagstaff?

It's fun to spend time in either Galveston or Flagstaff. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Flagstaff due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Flagstaff.

Families should spend more time in Galveston than Flagstaff. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Galveston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Galveston than Flagstaff. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Galveston that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Flagstaff than Galveston if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Flagstaff.


  • How many days in Galveston or Flagstaff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Flagstaff 2-4

One day in Galveston or Flagstaff?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Galveston. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Galveston has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Flagstaff. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Galveston or Flagstaff?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Galveston. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Flagstaff. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Flagstaff?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming town of Galveston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous city of Flagstaff. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Galveston or Flagstaff?

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Flagstaff is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Flagstaff or Galveston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Galveston Prices
    USA Prices
    Flagstaff Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Galveston $221
    Flagstaff $207

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $221, while the average daily cost in Flagstaff is $207. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Galveston and Flagstaff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Flagstaff $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Flagstaff $172
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Flagstaff

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Flagstaff? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Galveston


Hotels in Flagstaff


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Galveston Hotel Prices and Flagstaff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Flagstaff $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Flagstaff?

Prices for flights to both Flagstaff and Galveston change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Galveston $90
    Flagstaff $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

For Galveston, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of the Strand all-inclusive family friendly food tours: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Flagstaff $28

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Galveston Luggage Storage Close to Cruise Terminal: $9.53
  • Self-Guided Galveston Ghost Audio Tour : $10
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Adventure in League City : $10
  • Beer Tasting Experience with 4 Beer Flight: $10
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Al's Ghost tour : a small group experience : $19
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • Galveston's Secrets of the Strand Walking Tour : $23
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $24
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $25
  • Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Flagstaff

Here are a few actual costs in Flagstaff for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park Tour with Lunch & Pickup: $245
  • Bike Then Beer Tour with Guided EBike: $125
  • Comprehensive Grand Canyon Tour from Flagstaff: $209
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour: $28
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Walking Tour: $28
  • Family-Friendly Ghost Walking Tour in Flagstaff: $30
  • Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course-Adult Course: $65
  • Flagstaff Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Flagstaff Segway Tour: $129
  • Flagstaff Underground: Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Flagstaff's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Adults-Only Haunted Walking Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Flagstaff $29

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour: $20
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $20
  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour in Galveston: $29
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl and Historical Tour near The Strand: $29
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Flagstaff

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Flagstaff:

  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl: $50
  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff: $60


When comparing the travel costs between Galveston and Flagstaff, we can see that Galveston is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Galveston Expensive? and Is Flagstaff Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Flagstaff?

Flagstaff has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Flagstaff, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.